The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Dentistry has received a two-year $2.36 million grant to provide dental care for more than 1,000 people with HIV or AIDS each year.
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health provided the grant, which will be channeled through the federal government's Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program, which works with cities, states, and community-based organizations to provide HIV-related services to individuals who do not have sufficient healthcare coverage or financial resources, according to the university.
An estimated 50,550 people who have been diagnosed with HIV and AIDS are living in Los Angeles County -- and, counting undiagnosed cases, experts believe the number might exceed 60,000.
Patients will receive diagnostic services such as exams and radiographs; preparatory work such as cleanings and caries removal; and corrective care, including extractions, fillings, crowns, and other prostheses, and periodontal surgery. In addition, providers will emphasize prevention and early detection of oral diseases by teaching patients about the importance of proper oral care at home and periodic visits to the dental office for examinations.
The majority of the patients who will be treated will be referred by neighboring clinics that specialize in caring for people with HIV and AIDS.
